VI and Electromagnetic Actuator for Ultra-fast Operation

The concept proposed by Eaton in HYPERRIDE for the 14 kV Direct Current (DC) hybrid circuit breaker is integrating a vacuum interrupter in a newly designed actuation system (including control and drive) and a current detection and triggering system. The actuation function was implemented using a TCA (and the electronic driver), in a 3-coil concept for fast opening of the vacuum interrupter, and one coil for closing. The basic functional principles of the mechanical design of the actuator were analysed in a basic Finite Element Modeling (FEM) simulation and the electrical design of the driver was validated in a SPICE modelling and simulation. The electronic control and driver circuit was tested in a separate set-up, before being integrated in the complete actuator system. The actuator system was tested and the results were analysed for consistency and reliability.